In this episode of Rise and Shine, Haylee shares a raw and honest conversation about what it means to be intentional in your relationship with Jesus, especially during seasons when motivation feels low.

We all go through times when our spiritual disciplines feel hard — prayer feels quiet, Scripture feels distant, and motivation fades. But following Jesus was never meant to be passive. Faith doesn’t happen by accident. It happens by choice.

Using Proverbs, the words of Jesus, and practical biblical wisdom, this episode explores why we cannot rely on feelings alone and how intentional faith leads to spiritual growth, peace, and deeper intimacy with God.

Haylee breaks down the difference between works-based salvation and diligent obedience, reminding us that we don’t serve God to earn His love — we obey because we already have it.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why motivation alone is not enough to sustain your faith

• What it truly means to be intentional with Jesus

• Why following Jesus requires daily decisions, not just belief

• The difference between diligence and works-based salvation

• How apathy leads to spiritual dryness and anxiety

• Why obedience flows from love, not obligation

• Practical ways to rebuild consistency in prayer and Scripture

• How to get back on track when you fall off spiritually

  Key Scriptures Mentioned:

Proverbs 21:5
Proverbs 13:4
Matthew 7:24–27
James 1:22–25
James 2:14–17
James 4:17
Luke 12:47
Galatians 5:16
Colossians 3:23–24
Colossians 4:5
Ephesians 5:15–17
Hebrews 5:14
Romans 12:2

Main Takeaway:

You don’t accidentally grow close to Jesus. A thriving relationship with Him requires intentionality, discipline, and love — not perfection. When you choose Him daily, He meets you with grace, transformation, and peace.

Practical Ways to Be More Intentional with Jesus:

• Make a conscious decision to prioritize God daily

• Find an accountability partner

• Remove distractions that steal your attention

• Bring your burdens to God instead of carrying them alone

• Begin with worship to set your heart posture

• Start with a simple plan for Scripture reading

• When you mess up, don’t quit — start again

📲 Follow for daily encouragement and Bible teaching:
@theriseandshinepodcast | @hayleejacob_

🙏 Subscribe for weekly Bible studies, Christian encouragement, and faith-filled conversations.